z Affordable Ultra Compact Fixed Mount VHF radio
z Submersible IPX7 Front Panel
z DSC (Digital Selective Calling) Class D with Position Report and Re-
quest
z Programmable Scan, Priority Scan, and Dual Watch
z Full dot matrix display capable of indicating GPS information
z Submersible microphone with dedicated 16/9, H/L keys and channel
selection
z All USA / International and Canadian Marine Channels
z NOAA Weather Channels with Weather Alert
When Attached to GPS Receiver
Ú
Ú
Page 1GX1100S
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................... 4
2 PACKING LIST ..................................................................................................... 4
into the Call Waiting Directory .......................... 41
Page 3GX1100S
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
The Vertex Standard GX1100S ECLIPSE DSC+ is a VHF/FM transceiver de-
signed for use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. The GX1100S
can be operated from 11 to 16 VDC and has a switchable RF output power of 1
watt or 25 watts.
The GX1100S is capable of DSC (Digital Selective Calling) Class D (independent Channel 70 receiver) operation which allows continuous receiving of Digital Selective Calling functions on channel 70 even if the radio is receiving a call.
The GX1100S operates on all currently-allocated marine channels which are
switchable for use with either USA, International, or Canadian regulations. It
has an emergency channel 16 which can be immediately selected from any
channel by pressing the red [16/9] key. NOAA Weather channels can also be
accessed immediately by pressing the [CLR(WX)] key.
Other features of the transceiver include: scanning, priority scanning, submersible mic, high and low voltage warning, and GPS repeatability.
2 PACKING LIST
When the package containing the transceiver is first opened, please check it
for the following contents:
This radio is restricted to occupational use, work related operations only where
the radio operator must have the knowledge to control the exposure conditions
of its passengers and bystanders by maintaining the minimum separation distance of 0.6 m (2 feet).
Failure to observe these restrictions will result in exceeding the FCC RF exposure limits.
Antenna Installation:
The antenna must be located at least 0.6 m (2 feet) away from passengers in
order to comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements.
ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION (in USA or Canada only
Please visit www.standardhorizon.com to register the GX1100S Marine
VHF. It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to time may
be beneficial to you, as new products are released they will appear on
the Marine Division of Vertex Standard Web site.
PRODUCT SUPPORT INQUIRIES
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the GX1100S,
you can visit the Marine Division of Vertex Standard Web site to send an
E-Mail or contact the Product Support team at 800-767-2450 M-F 7:005:00PST.
)
Page 5GX1100S
5 FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION
Vertex Standard radios comply with the Federal Communication Commission
(FCC) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
STATION LICENSE
An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in
U.S. waters (except Hawaii) which is under 20 meters in length. However, any
vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage, carrying a
HF single side band radiotelephone or marine satellite terminal is required to
have a ship station license. FCC license forms, including applications for ship
(605) and land station licenses can be downloaded via the Internet at
http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605.html. To obtain a form from the FCC,
call (888) 225-5322.
RADIO CALL SIGN
Currently the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a Ship Radio
Station License. The USCG recommends the boats registration number and
the state to be used.
CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING
You may need a license when traveling in Canada. If you do need a license
contact their nearest field office or regional office or write:
Industry Canada
Radio Regulatory Branch
Attn: DOSP
300 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada, KIA 0C8
FCC / INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATION
The following data pertaining to the transceiver is necessary to fill out the license application.
Type Acceptance ......................................................................... FCC Part 80
Output Power ............................................... 1 Watt (low) and 25 Watts (high)
Frequency Range ..................................................... 156.025 to 163.275 MHz
FCC Type Number....................................................................K6630373X3D
Industry Canada Type Approval ............................................. 511B-30373X3S
GX1100SPage 6
6 FCC NOTICE
NOTICE
Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void compliance with FCC Rules. Any change or modification must be approved
in writing by Marine Division of Vertex Standard.
NOTICE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Page 7GX1100S
7 GETTING STARTED
7.1 ABOUT VHF RADIO
The radio frequencies used in the VHF marine band lie between 156 and 158
MHz with some shore stations available between 161 and 163 MHz. The marine VHF band provides communications over distances that are essentially
“line of sight” (VHF signals do not travel well through objects such as buildings,
hills or trees). Actual transmission range depends much more on antenna type,
gain and height than on the power output of the transmitter. On a fixed mount
25W radio transmission expected distances can be greater than 15 miles.
7.2 SELECTING AN ANTENNA
Marine antennas are made to radiate signals equally in all horizontal directions,
but not straight up. The objective of a marine antenna is to enhance the signal
toward the horizon. The degree to which this is accomplished is called the
antenna’s gain. It is measured in decibels (dB) and is one of the major factors in
choosing an antenna. In terms of effective radiated power (ERP), antennas are
rated on the basis of how much gain they have over a theoretical antenna with
zero gain. A 3 foot, 3dB gain antenna represents twice as much gain over the
imaginary antenna.
Typically a 3 foot 3dB gain stainless steel whip is used on a sailboat mast. The
longer 8 foot 6dB fibreglass whip is primarily used on power boats that require
the additional gain.
GX1100SPage 8
7.3 COAXIAL CABLE
VHF antennas are connected to the transceiver by means of a coaxial cable –
a shielded transmission line. Coaxial cable is specified by it’s diameter and
construction.
For runs less than 20 feet, RG-58/U, about 1/4 inch in diameter is a good choice.
For runs over 20 feet but less than 50 feet, the larger RG-8X should be used for
cable runs over 50 feet RG-213 should be used. For installation of the connector onto the coaxial cable refer to the figure below.
To get your coax cable through a fitting and into your boat’s interior, you
may have to cut off the end plug and reattach it later. You can do this if
you follow the directions that are supplied with the connector. Be sure to
make good soldered connections.
Page 9GX1100S
8 INSTALLATION
8.1 LOCATION
The radio can be mounted at any angle. Choose a mounting location that:
• keeps the radio and microphone at least 3.3 ft (1 m) away from your
vessel’s magnetic navigation compass
• provides accessibility to the front panel controls
• allows connection to a power source and an antenna
• has nearby space for installation of a microphone hanger
• the antenna must be mounted at least 3.3 ft (1 m) from radio
Note: To insure the radio does not affect the compass, or that the radios performance is not affected by the antenna location, temporarily connect the radio in
the desired location and:
a. Examine the compass to see if the radio causes any deviation
b. Connect the antenna and key the radio. Check to ensure the radio is
operating correctly by requesting a radio check.
8.2 MOUNTING THE RADIO
8.2.1 Supplied Universal Mounting Bracket
The supplied universal mounting bracket allows overhead or desktop mounting.
Use a 13/64” (5.2-mm) bit to drill the holes to a surface which is more 0.4 inch
(10 mm) thick and can support more than 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) and secure the bracket
with the supplied screws, spring washers, flat washers, and nuts.
Desktop MountingOverhead Mounting
GX1100SPage 10
8.2.2 Optional MMB-84 Flush Mount Bracket
1. To assist in flush mounting, a template has been included. Use this tem-
plate to assess the mounting location.
2. Use the template to mark the location where the rectangular hole is to be
cut. Confirm the space behind the dash or panel is deep enough to accommodate the transceiver (at least 6.7 inches or 17 cm deep).
There should be at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) between the transceiver’s heatsink
and any wiring, cables or structures.
3. Cut out the rectangular hole and insert the transceiver.
4. Fasten the brackets to the sides of the transceiver with the lock washer nut
combination; so that the mounting screw base faces the mounting surface.
5. Turn the adjusting screw to adjust the tension so that the transceiver is tight
against the mounting surface.
Bracket
Adjusting Screw
Lock-washer nut combination
MMB-84 Flush Mount Installation
Page 11GX1100S
8.3 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
CAUTION
Reverse polarity connections will damage the radio!
Connect the power cord and antenna to the radio. Antenna and Power Supply
connections are as follows (see Figure 1):
1. Mount the antenna at least 1 m away from the radio. At the rear of the radio,
connect the antenna cable.
2. Connect the red power wire to a 13.8 VDC ±20% power source. Connect
the black power wire to a negative ground.
3. If an optional remote extension speaker is to be used, refer to next section
for connections.
4. It is advisable to have a Certified Marine Technician check the power output
and the standing wave ratio of the antenna after installation.
Optional Speaker
Antenna
Accessory Cable
Water proof
Deck Outlet
Fuse
Red
Power Source
Black
Figure 1. General Installation
Fuse Replacement
To take out the Fuse from the Fuse Holder, hold
the both ends of the Fuse Holder and pull the Fuse
Holder apart, do not bend the Fuse Holder. When
you replace the Fuse, please confirm that the Fuse
is tightly fixed on the metal contact located inside
the Fuse Holder. If the metal contact holding the
fuse is loose, the Fuse holder may heat up.
GPS Navigation Receiver
GX1100SPage 12
8.4 ACCESSORY CABLE
Wire Color/Description
WHITE - External Speaker (+
SHIELD - External Speaker
BLUE- NMEA Input (+)
GREEN - NMEA Input
(–)
PURPLE - NMEA Output (+)
When connecting the external speaker or GPS navigation receiver, strip off
about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the specified wire’s insulation, then splice the ends
together using proper waterproofing techniques.
Connection Examples
)
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
(–)
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
Connect to NMEA
(+)
output of GPS
Connect to NMEA ground of GPS
Connect to NMEA (+) input of GPS
PA Speaker
Shield
White
Blue
Green
Purple
NMEA OUT
NMEA OUT
NMEA IN
( )
( )
( )
GPS Receiver
•The GPS must have the NMEA Output turned on and set to 4800 Baud in
the setup menu. If there is a selection for parity select none.
•For further information on interfacing /setting up your GPS. Please contact
the manufacturer of the GPS receiver.
•GX1100S can read NMEA-0183 version 2.0 or higher.
•The NMEA supported sentences are:
Input:GLL, GGA, RMC and GNS (RMC sentence is recommended)
Output: DSC and DSE
(DSC sentences to Standard Horizon Plotter for Position Polling)
8.5 CHECKING GPS CONNECTIONS
After connections have been made between the
GX1100S and the GPS, a small satellite icon will appear on the top right corner of the display, and displays your current location (Latitude/Longitude) on the
display.
NOTE
If there is a problem with the NMEA input from a GPS, the GPS icon will
blink continuously until the connection is corrected.
Page 13GX1100S
8.6 CHANGING THE GPS TIME
From the Factory the GX1100S shows GPS satellite time or UTC time. A time
offset is needed to show the local time in your area.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL(MENU)] key until
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
“
SETUP MENU” appears.
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
2. Press the [ENT] key, then select “
with the [S(UP)] / [T(DOWN)] keys.
3. Press the [ENT] key.
4. Press the [S(UP)] / [T(DOWN)] keys to select
time offset from UTC. See illustration below to find
your offset time from UTC. If “
the time is the same as UTC (Universal Time Coordinated or GMT Greenwich Mean Time).
5. Press the [ENT] key to store the time offset.
6. Press the [16/9] key to exit the menu mode and
return to radio operation.
TIME OFFSETTIME OFFSET
TIME OFFSET”
TIME OFFSETTIME OFFSET
::
:
::
0000
0000
00
00” is assigned,
0000
0000
OFFSET TIME TABLE
GX1100SPage 14
8.7 CHANGING THE TIME LOCATION
Sets the radio to show UTC time or Local time with the offset inputted in section
8.6 Changing the GPS Time.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL(MENU)] key until
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
“
SETUP MENU” appears.
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
2. Press the [ENT] key, then select “
with the [S(UP)] / [T(DOWN)] keys.
3. Press the [ENT] key.
4. Press the [S(UP)] / [T(DOWN)] to select “
LOCALLOCAL
or “
LOCAL”.
LOCALLOCAL
5. Press the [ENT] key to store the selected setting.
6. Press the [16/9] key to exit the menu mode and
return to radio operation.
In the Local time mode, the display shows the time by
the 12-hour system. Meanwhile, the display shows the
time by 24-hour system in the UTC time mode.
TIME DISPLAYTIME DISPLAY
TIME DISPLAY”
TIME DISPLAYTIME DISPLAY
UTCUTC
UTC”
UTCUTC
(
“UTC” mode
)(
“LOCAL” mode
)
Page 15GX1100S
9 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
NOTE
This section defines each control of the transceiver. See Figure 4 for
location of controls. For detailed operating instructions refer to section
“10 BASIC OPERATION.”
POWER SWITCH / VOLUME CONTROL (VOL/PWR
Turns the transceiver on and off as well as adjusts the audio volume.
Turn this knob clockwise to turn the radio on and to increase the speakers
audio volume level.
Turn fully counter-clockwise to turn the radio off.
SQUELCH CONTROL (SQL
Adjusting this control clockwise, sets the point at which random noise on
the channel does not activate the audio circuits but a received signal will.
This point is called the squelch threshold. Further adjustment of the squelch
control will degrade reception of wanted transmissions.
[
CLR(WX)] Key
Press the [CLR(WX)] key to cancel the menu selection.
Secondary use
Press and hold the [CLR(WX)] key to recall the last-used NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather Channel from any channel location. Recalls the previously-selected working channel when press
and hold the [CLR(WX)] key again.
[
ENT] Key
Press the [ENT] Key to determine the menu selection.
[
CALL(MENU)] Key
Press the [CALL(MENU)] key to access the “
CALLCALL
CALL”, “
CALLCALL
DSC LOGDSC LOG
“
DSC LOG”, and “
DSC LOGDSC LOG
GROUP CALLGROUP CALL
GROUP CALL”, “
GROUP CALLGROUP CALL
DSC TESTDSC TEST
DSC TEST” functions can be accessed from the “
DSC TESTDSC TEST
Before the “
tered. Refer to section “11.2 MARITIME MOBILE SERVICE IDEN-
TITY (MMSI).”
DSC MENUDSC MENU
DSC MENU” menu can be selected a MMSI must be en-
DSC MENUDSC MENU
)
ALL SHIPS CALLALL SHIPS CALL
ALL SHIPS CALL”, “
ALL SHIPS CALLALL SHIPS CALL
NOTE
DSC MENUDSC MENU
DSC MENU”. The “
DSC MENUDSC MENU
POS REQUESTPOS REQUEST
POS REQUEST”, “
POS REQUESTPOS REQUEST
)
POS REPORTPOS REPORT
POS REPORT”,
POS REPORTPOS REPORT
INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL
INDIVIDUAL
INDIVIDUALINDIVIDUAL
DCS MENUDCS MENU
DCS MENU”.
DCS MENUDCS MENU
Secondary use
Press and hold the [CALL(MENU)] key to access the “
DIO SETUPDIO SETUP
DIO SETUP” (refer to section “11 RADIO SETUP MODE”), “
DIO SETUPDIO SETUP
INPUTINPUT
INPUT”, and “
INPUTINPUT
MMSI SETUPMMSI SETUP
MMSI SETUP” functions can be accessed from the “
MMSI SETUPMMSI SETUP
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
SETUP MENU”. The “
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
DSC SETUPDSC SETUP
DSC SETUP”, “
DSC SETUPDSC SETUP
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
SETUP MENU”.
SETUP MENUSETUP MENU
GX1100SPage 16
RA-RA-
RA-
RA-RA-
POSPOS
POS
POSPOS
Figure 4. Controls and Connectors
Page 17GX1100S
KEYPAD
[S(UP)]
[
16/9] Key
[
SCAN(MEM)] Key
[
DISTRESS] Key
Used to send a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress call refer to section
“9.3.1 (Transmitting A Distress Alert).”
/ [T(DOWN)] KEYS
The [S(UP)] and [T(DOWN)] keys are used to select a desired channel and to select items in the DSC OPERATION and SETUP menus.
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location and automatically selects high power. Holding down this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the [16/9] key again reverts to the previous selected working channel.
Secondary use
Press and hold the [16/9] key then press the [CLR(WX)] key to switch
between the USA, Canadian, and International Channel Groups.
Press this key to start and stop the scanning of programmed channels.
Refer to section “8.10 SCANNING” for details.
Secondary use
To add a channel into the scan memory, select the channel and press
and hold the [SCAN(MEM)] key until “MEM” is shown on the display.
To delete a memorized channel from scan memory, select the channel
and press and hold the [SCAN(MEM)] key until “MEM” is removed from
the display.
DC INPUT CABLE
Connects the radio to a DC power supply capable of delivering 12V DC.
EXTERNAL SPEAKER CONNECTION CABLE
Connects the GX1100S to an external speaker.
GPS RECEIVER CONNECTION CABLE
Connects the GX1100S to a GPS receiver.
GND TERMINAL
Connects the GX1100S to a good ground, for safety and optimum perfor-
mance.
Normally, the GND connection to the heat sink is not needed. However,
when the DC power cable connection to the radio has a long run, the transmitter may become unstable and the receiving audio may be noisy. In such
a case, connect a large diameter, short cable between this terminal on the
heat sink and battery ground.
GX1100SPage 18
Install only the supplied screw or similar size (M3x6, Stainless Steel
screw.
ANTENNA JACK
Connects an antenna to the transceiver. Use a marine VHF antenna with
an impedance of 50 ohms.
MICROPHONE
Transmits the voice message with reduction of background noise, using
Clear Voice Noise Reduction Technology.
NOTE
Be sure your mouth is about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) from the mic hole for
best performance.
PTT (Push-To-Talk) SWITCH
Keys the transmitter when the transceiver is in radio mode.
)
[S(UP)]
The [S(UP)] and [T(DOWN)] keys on the microphone function the same
as the [S(UP)] and [T(DOWN)] keys on the front panel of the transceiver.
[
16/9] Key
The [16/9] key on the microphone functions the same as the [16/9] key on
the front panel of the transceiver.
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location. Holding down
this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the [16/9] key again reverts to the previous selected working channel.
[
H/L] Key
Press this key to toggle the transmit output power between 25 W (High)
and 1 W (Low) power. When the [H/L] key is pressed while the transceiver
is on channel 13 or 67, the power will temporarily switch from LO to HI
power until the PTT is released.
The [H/L] key does not function on transmit inhibited and low power only
channels.
/ [T(DOWN)] KEYS
NOTE
1W low power is indicated by LO on the display, when 25W high
power is selected the display do not show an indication.
Page 19GX1100S
10 BASIC OPERATION
10.1 RECEPTION
1. After the transceiver has been installed, ensure that the power supply and
antenna are properly connected.
2. Turn the VOL/PWR knob clockwise to turn the transceiver on.
3. Turn the SQL knob fully counterclockwise. This state is known as “squelch off”.
4. Turn up the VOL knob until noise or audio from the speaker is at a comfortable level.
5. Turn the SQL knob clockwise until the random noise disappears. This state
is known as the “squelch threshold.”
6. Press the [S(UP)] or [T(DOWN)] keys to select the desired channel. Refer
to the channel chart on page 64 for available channels.
7. When a message is received, adjust the volume to the desired listening
level. The “” indicator in the LCD is displayed indicating that the channel is being used.
10.2 TRANSMISSION
1. Perform steps 1 through 6 of RECEPTION.
2. Before transmitting, monitor the channel to ensure it is clear.
THIS IS AN FCC REQUIREMENT!
3Press the PTT (push-to-talk) switch. The “” indicator in the LCD is
displayed.
4. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone.
5. When the transmission is finished, release the PTT switch.
NOTE
This is a noise cancelling microphone. The oval slot on the bottom of
microphone should be positioned within 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) from the mouth
for optimum performance.
10.3 TRANSMIT TIME - OUT TIMER (TOT
When the PTT switch on the microphone is held down, transmit time is limited to
5 minutes. This limits unintentional transmissions due to a stuck microphone.
About 10 seconds before automatic transmitter shutdown, a warning beep will be
heard from the speaker(s). The transceiver will automatically go to receive mode,
even if the PTT switch is continually held down. Before transmitting again, the PTT
switch must first be released and then pressed again.
NOTE
When a transmission was shut down by the TOT, the GX1100S can not
transmit afterwards for 10 seconds.
)
GX1100SPage 20
10.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE
Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 64) for instructions on use
of simplex and duplex channels.
NOTE
All channels are factory-programmed in accordance with International,
Industry Canada (Canada), and FCC (USA) regulations. Mode of operation cannot be altered from simplex to duplex or vice-versa.
10.5 USA, INTERNATIONAL, AND CANADA MODE
1. To change the modes, hold the [16/9] key and press the [CLR(WX)] key.
The mode changes from “USA” to “International” to “Canadian” with each
press of the [CLR(WX)] key.
2. “USA” will be displayed on the LCD for USA mode, “INTL” will be displayed
for International mode, and “CAN” will be displayed for Canadian mode.
3. Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 61) for allocated channels in each mode.
INTERNATIONAL MODECANADIAN MODEUSA MODE
10.6 NOAA WEATHER CHANNELS
NOTE
NOAA Weather channels are available in the waters of USA and Canada only.
1. To receive a NOAA weather channel, press and
hold the [CLR(WX)] key from any channel. The
transceiver will go to the last selected weather
channel.
2. Press the [S]/[T] keys to select a different NOAA weather channel.
3. To exit from the NOAA weather channels, press and hold the [CLR(WX
key. The transceiver returns to the channel it was on prior to a weather
channel.
10.6.1 NOAA Weather Alert
In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurricanes,
the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends a weather
alert accompanied by a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weather report on one of
the NOAA weather channels. When the Weather Alert feature is enabled (see
section “12.8 WX ALERT”), the transceiver is capable of receiving this alert if
Page 21GX1100S
)]
the following is performed:
1. Program NOAA weather channels into the transceiver’s memory for scanning. Follow the same procedure as for regular channels under section “10.11SCANNING.”
2. Press the [SCAN(MEM)] key once to start memory scanning or priority scanning (determined from the “
3. The programmed NOAA weather channels will be scanned along with the
regular-programmed channels. However, scanning will not stop on a normal weather broadcast unless a NOAA alert is received.
4. When an alert is received on a NOAA weather channel, scanning will stop and
the transceiver will emit a loud beep to alert the user of a NOAA broadcast.
5. Press the [CLR(WX)] key to stop the alert tone and receive the weather report.
If the [CLR(WX)] key is not pressed the alert tone will be emitted for 5
minutes and then the weather report will be received.
The Weather Alert feature is also engaged while the transceiver is
receiving on one of the NOAA weather channels.
RADIO SETUPRADIO SETUP
RADIO SETUP” selection, see page 56 for details).
RADIO SETUPRADIO SETUP
NOTE
10.6.2 NOAA Weather Alert Testing
NOAA tests the alert system every Wednesday between 11AM and 1PM. To
test the GX1100S’s NOAA Weather alert feature, on Wednesday between 11AM
and 1PM, setup as in previous section and confirm the alert is heard.
10.7 EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE
Channel 16 is known as the Hail and Distress Channel. An emergency is defined as a threat to life or property. In such instances, be sure the transceiver is
on and set to CHANNEL 16. Then use the following procedure:
1. Press the microphone push-to-talk switch and say “Mayday, Mayday, May-day. This is , , ” (your vessel’s name).
2. Then repeat once: “Mayday, ” (your vessel’s name).
3. Now report your position in latitude/longitude, or by giving a true or magnetic bearing (state which) to a well-known landmark such as a navigation
aid or geographic feature such as an island or harbour entry.
4. Explain the nature of your distress (sinking, collision, aground, fire, heart
attack, life-threatening injury, etc.).
5. State the kind of assistance you desire (pumps, medical aid, etc.).
6. Report the number of persons aboard and condition of any injured.
7. Estimate the present seaworthiness and condition of your vessel.
)
GX1100SPage 22
8. Give your vessel’s description: length, design (power or sail), color and other
distinguishing marks. The total transmission should not exceed 1 minute.
9. End the message by saying “OVER.” Release the microphone button and
listen.
10. If there is no answer, repeat the above procedure. If there is still no response, try another channel.
10.8 CALLING ANOTHER VESSEL (CHANNEL 16 OR 9
Channel 16 may be used for initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.
However, its most important use is for emergency messages. This channel
must be monitored at all times except when actually using another channel.
It is monitored by the European, U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards and by other
vessels. Use of channel 16 for hailing must be limited to initial contactonly. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds, but may be repeated 3 times at 2minute intervals. In areas of heavy radio traffic, congestion on channel 16 resulting from its use as a hailing channel can be reduced significantly in U.S.
waters by using channel 9 as the initial contact (hailing) channel for non-emergency communications. Here, also, calling time should not exceed 30 seconds
but may be repeated 3 times at 2-minute intervals.
Prior to making contact with another vessel, refer to the channel charts in this
manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after initial contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 are some of the channels available to
non-commercial (recreational) boaters. Monitor your desired channel in advance
to make sure you will not be interrupting other traffic, and then go back to either
channel 16 or 9 for your initial contact.
When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear, state the name of the other vessel
you wish to call and then “this is” followed by the name of your vessel and your
Station License (Call Sign). When the other vessel returns your call, immediately request another channel by saying “go to,” the number of the other channel, and “over.” Then switch to the new channel. When the new channel is not
busy, call the other vessel.
)
After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone’s push-to-talk
(PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed, end
the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note that it is
not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only at the beginning and end of the contact.
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some
radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels or
when scanning.
Page 23GX1100S
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